A security analysis for financial institutions identifies weaknesses in IT and physical systems in order to minimise risks and ensure legal compliance with regulations such as MaRisk, BAIT and DORA. An independent provider such as PLANATEL® supports the needs analysis, manufacturer-independent planning and selection of suitable service providers to implement tailored, future-proof security solutions.

Strategic planning and selection of security solutions in a regulated environment

A sound security analysis is essential, but choosing the right provider determines the outcome. Find out how independent planning helps you develop the optimal security strategy.

Key Takeaways

  • A comprehensive security analysis is essential for financial institutions due to rising cyber threats and strict regulatory requirements (MaRisk, BAIT, DORA).
  • Choosing an independent planning and consulting firm such as PLANATEL® ensures manufacturer-independent, objective recommendations and tailored solutions free of conflicts of interest.
  • Security is a continuous process that goes beyond a one-off analysis and requires an integrated strategy for IT and physical security as well as regular adjustments.

Financial institutions operate in an environment shaped by constantly growing threats and a dynamic regulatory framework. The integrity of data, the availability of systems and the protection of physical assets are not only business-critical but also required by law. A comprehensive security analysis is therefore not an optional undertaking but a strategic necessity to ensure resilience against cyberattacks, physical threats and operational risks. Given the complexity and far-reaching impact of potential security incidents, choosing a competent and, above all, independent provider for such an analysis is of decisive importance. This is where PLANATEL®'s expertise comes in, to guide you through this process.

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The critical need for a security analysis for financial institutions

Financial institutions, as custodians of sensitive data and large assets, are a preferred target for a wide range of attackers. The threat landscape is evolving rapidly, from sophisticated cyberattacks to complex physical security risks. A recent cybersecurity report for the first half of 2025 shows that 40 percent of all repelled cyberattacks were directed at banks and other financial service providers, underlining the exposed position of this industry. According to the Bitkom study "Wirtschaftsschutz 2025", the total damage caused to the German economy by data theft, industrial espionage and sabotage rose to 289.2 billion euros, with cyberattacks accounting for 70 percent of this. These figures make clear that the cost of a data leak or security incident is not limited to direct financial losses but can also result in significant reputational damage and loss of customer trust. Executive management and the board bear ultimate responsibility for the security of company assets and compliance with statutory requirements. A sound security analysis is therefore not a luxury but an essential instrument for proactively identifying potential weaknesses and developing a robust defence strategy. It makes it possible to assess risks, prioritise protective measures and strengthen the resilience of the entire institution before an incident occurs. Without such an analysis, financial institutions remain vulnerable to attacks that can threaten their existence.

Regulatory framework: MaRisk, BAIT and DORA as drivers

The financial industry in Germany and Europe is subject to one of the strictest regulatory frameworks in the world. The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) sets clear standards for risk management and IT security through its circulars and guidelines. The central pillars here are the Minimum Requirements for Risk Management (MaRisk) and the Banking Supervisory Requirements for IT (BAIT). MaRisk, most recently updated by the 8th amendment on 29 May 2024, gives concrete form to the risk management requirements under § 25a KWG and constitutes a de facto binding interpretation for credit institutions. BAIT, in its version of 16 December 2024, specifies the technical and organisational equipment of institutions and information risk management. It is important to note, however, that BAIT is being progressively superseded by the EU regulation Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA). From 17 January 2025, institutions that must operate ICT risk management under DORA are excluded from the scope of BAIT, and BAIT will be fully repealed with effect from 31 December 2026. DORA defines comprehensive IT security requirements for the financial industry and aims to strengthen digital operational resilience. These regulatory requirements make a regular and detailed security analysis not merely best practice but a mandatory prerequisite for legal compliance. In its "Risiken im Fokus 2025" report, BaFin identified cyber incidents with serious impacts and concentrations in the outsourcing of IT services as growing risks, further underlining the need for a proactive and legally compliant security strategy.

Holistic security analysis: integrating IT and physical security

An effective security strategy for financial institutions must encompass both the digital and the physical world. The days when IT security and physical security were treated as separate disciplines are over. Modern threats often exploit the interfaces between these areas, which is why a holistic security analysis is essential. In the field of IT security, this includes comprehensive vulnerability analyses, penetration tests to identify attack vectors, checking the IT infrastructure for configuration errors, and ensuring data integrity and availability. A robust information security management system (ISMS) in accordance with ISO/IEC 27001 is an internationally recognised standard here, offering a systematic approach to planning, implementing, monitoring and continuously improving information security. In addition, contingency and business continuity plans are crucial for maintaining business operations in the event of a cyberattack or system failure. On the physical side, the analysis covers the evaluation of access control systems, video surveillance systems, fire alarm systems (BMA) in accordance with DIN 14675 and VdS 2095, and intrusion detection systems (EMA). VdS 2095 is an important guideline for the planning and installation of fire alarm systems, ensuring a high level of functional reliability and dependability. Security management systems and building management technology integrate these various components to enable central monitoring and control. A comprehensive analysis evaluates not only the individual systems but also their interplay and the processes that ensure their effectiveness. Only through this integrated view can financial institutions build a genuinely resilient security architecture.

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The indispensable role of independent consulting in provider selection

Choosing the right provider for a security analysis and the subsequent implementation of security solutions is a strategic decision with far-reaching consequences. Here, the role of an independent planning and consulting firm such as PLANATEL® is invaluable. Our core philosophy is manufacturer independence and financial independence, which ensures that our recommendations serve exclusively the interests of our clients. Unlike providers tied to specific products or manufacturers, we receive no commissions and are therefore free of conflicts of interest. This enables an objective evaluation of market solutions and the development of tailored concepts that are precisely matched to the individual needs and specific risk situation of the financial institution. With more than 34 years of experience in planning and optimising complex infrastructures, we have the in-depth technical and regulatory know-how to define requirements precisely and identify the right solutions. Our services include detailed needs analysis, the preparation of a target concept, the drafting of neutral tender documents, and professional support in provider selection. We help you separate the wheat from the chaff and find a partner who is not only technically proficient but also economically viable. This independent guidance minimises the risk of poor decisions, optimises investments and ensures a future-proof security strategy without unnecessary manufacturer dependency.

Methodical approach: from as-is analysis to implementation support

A successful security analysis and the resulting implementation of security measures require a structured and methodical approach. At PLANATEL®, we follow a proven phase model that creates transparency and ensures the success of the project. It begins with a comprehensive as-is survey, in which the existing IT and physical security structures, processes and current threat situation are recorded in detail. Building on this, a precise needs analysis defines the financial institution's specific protection objectives, taking account of regulatory requirements (MaRisk, BAIT, DORA) and individual risk profiles. In the target concept phase, we develop manufacturer-independent, future-oriented security architectures that cover both technical and organisational measures. This includes the design of systems such as fire alarm systems in accordance with DIN 14675, access control, video surveillance and integrated security management systems. Detailed planning translates these concepts into concrete technical specifications and specifications of services. We then accompany you through tendering and award, drafting neutral tender documents and objectively evaluating the offers of potential providers. Our support also extends to implementation support, to ensure that the selected solutions are implemented in accordance with the plans. The process concludes with acceptance of the systems and careful invoice verification, to ensure contractually compliant performance and cost control. This approach minimises project risks and ensures that the implemented security solutions meet the highest standards and remain effective in the long term.

Common pitfalls and how independent planning avoids them

Numerous pitfalls lurk when carrying out security analyses and implementing security solutions at financial institutions, which can jeopardise the success of the project. One of the most common mistakes is a fragmented approach, in which IT security and physical security are considered in isolation from one another. This leads to gaps in the overall security architecture that can be exploited by attackers. Another stumbling block is inadequate consideration of regulatory requirements, which can lead to costly rework or even sanctions. Many institutions also underestimate the importance of a detailed needs analysis and rush too quickly into selecting products that may not be optimally tailored to their specific risks. Manufacturer dependency is another critical problem: when a provider carries out the analysis while also selling its own products, there is an inherent conflict of interest that can lead to oversized or suboptimal solutions. PLANATEL® addresses these challenges through a holistic and integrated planning approach that interlinks all security aspects from the outset. Our in-depth knowledge of MaRisk, BAIT and DORA ensures legal compliance at every stage of the project. Through our manufacturer-independent positioning, we guarantee an objective needs analysis and the selection of the best possible solutions, free of sales interests. This protects our clients from unnecessary investments and creates a future-proof security infrastructure that can respond flexibly to new threats. We identify potential pitfalls early and develop strategies to effectively avoid them, resulting in more efficient project execution and sustainably higher security.

Criteria for selecting a qualified provider for security analyses

Choosing the right provider for a security analysis is crucial for its quality and the long-term success of your security strategy. Financial institutions should pay attention to a range of key criteria that go beyond price alone. First and foremost is the provider's expertise and experience, particularly in the financial sector. A deep understanding of the specific risks, regulatory requirements (MaRisk, BAIT, DORA) and technological characteristics of this industry is essential. Second, the provider's independence is of central importance. Only a manufacturer-independent consultant can guarantee an objective evaluation of existing systems and an unbiased recommendation for future solutions. Look for transparent business models that provide for no commissions from product manufacturers. Third, certifications and references are important indicators of quality and trustworthiness. Certification to ISO/IEC 27001 for the provider's own information security management system signals a high level of professionalism. References from other financial institutions can provide valuable insight into performance and reliability. Fourth, the provider's methodology and approach should be clearly defined and comprehensible, ideally based on established standards and best practices. Fifth, transparency in communication and the ability to explain complex technical matters clearly are crucial for a successful collaboration. Finally, the scalability of services is important to ensure that the provider remains a competent partner even as your institution's future requirements and growth evolve. An independent planning and consulting service provider such as PLANATEL® helps you objectively evaluate these criteria and find the optimal partner for your security needs.

Continuous security strategy: beyond the one-off analysis

Security is not a static state but a dynamic process that requires constant attention and adjustment. A one-off security analysis, however thorough, is only the first step towards a resilient security strategy. Financial institutions must establish a culture of continuous improvement in order to respond to constantly evolving threats and regulatory changes. This includes regular reviews of implemented security measures, ongoing monitoring of the threat landscape, and adjustment of protection strategies to new risks. In its "Risiken im Fokus 2025" report, BaFin emphasises the need for an adaptive risk management strategy in order to respond quickly to changing circumstances. A key part of this continuous strategy is the integration of security aspects into overall corporate governance and into all business processes. This includes regular staff training, updating contingency plans, and conducting stress tests to verify the effectiveness of security measures under real conditions. PLANATEL® supports financial institutions in developing and implementing this long-term perspective. We not only plan the initial security solutions but also develop concepts for continuous security management, monitoring and regular auditing. Our expertise helps you establish a sustainable security strategy that goes beyond pure technical implementation and ensures lasting legal compliance as well as a high level of resilience for your financial institution. Through our independent consulting, you remain flexible and can proactively adapt your security infrastructure to future challenges.

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Next Step

Contact us for a no-obligation initial consultation.

PLANATEL®: Independent planning and consulting since 1992
Tel: 040 / 23 73 02-30
E-Mail: info@planatel.de

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is independent consulting so important for the security analysis of financial institutions?

Independent consulting is of decisive importance for financial institutions because it enables an objective and unbiased assessment of the security situation. Providers that also sell products may tend to favour their own solutions, even if these are not optimally tailored to the institution's specific needs. An independent consultant such as PLANATEL® acts free of such conflicts of interest, guarantees a manufacturer-independent analysis, and recommends the economically and technically best solutions. This leads to more efficient investment and sustainably higher security, since recommendations are based exclusively on the client's requirements.

What phases does a typical security analysis conducted by PLANATEL® involve?

PLANATEL® guides financial institutions through a structured process that typically covers the following phases: first, a detailed as-is survey of the existing security infrastructure and processes is carried out. Building on this, a precise needs analysis is conducted to define the specific protection objectives and regulatory requirements. In the target concept phase, we develop manufacturer-independent security architectures. Detailed planning translates these concepts into concrete specifications. We then support tendering and award, implementation support, acceptance of the systems, and final invoice verification. This methodical approach ensures the quality and legal compliance of the entire project.

How does PLANATEL® take regulatory requirements such as MaRisk, BAIT and DORA into account in the security analysis?

PLANATEL® integrates the regulatory requirements of MaRisk, BAIT and DORA into every phase of the security analysis from the outset. Our experts have in-depth knowledge of these regulations and ensure that all planning and recommendations comply with them. This starts with the needs analysis, in which the regulatory protection objectives are defined, continues through the target concept, which provides for legally compliant solutions, and extends to acceptance, where compliance with the requirements is verified. We help financial institutions not only meet minimum requirements but also develop a robust security strategy that is proactively prepared for future regulatory changes and ensures lasting legal compliance.

What types of security systems are considered in a holistic analysis?

A holistic security analysis considers both IT and physical security systems. In the field of IT security, this includes, among other things, information security management systems (ISMS in accordance with ISO 27001), vulnerability analyses, penetration tests, contingency and recovery concepts, and the security of networks and data. For physical security, this covers access control systems, video surveillance systems, fire alarm systems (BMA in accordance with DIN 14675 and VdS 2095), intrusion detection systems (EMA) and integrated security management systems. The goal is to optimise the interplay of these systems and create a coherent security architecture that covers all potential threat vectors.

How can PLANATEL® help financial institutions avoid manufacturer dependencies?

PLANATEL® is 100% manufacturer-independent and financially independent. This has been our founding principle since 1992. We receive no commissions or benefits from hardware or software manufacturers. Our consulting focuses exclusively on the best solutions for our clients, based on their individual requirements and budgets. We prepare neutral tender documents that enable financial institutions to objectively compare offers from different providers. Through this approach, we ensure that the selection of systems and service providers is not influenced by sales interests, avoiding unnecessary manufacturer dependencies and optimising flexibility and cost efficiency in the long term.

Why is a security analysis particularly important for financial institutions?

A security analysis is crucial for identifying these risks, meeting regulatory requirements (e.g. MaRisk, BAIT, DORA), and protecting the financial stability and reputation of the institution. It helps proactively address weaknesses and strengthen resilience.

What regulatory requirements must financial institutions take into account in a security analysis?

Financial institutions must in particular take into account BaFin's Minimum Requirements for Risk Management (MaRisk), the Banking Supervisory Requirements for IT (BAIT) and, increasingly from 17 January 2025, the EU regulation Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA). These frameworks prescribe detailed requirements for risk management, IT security and operational resilience.

What does manufacturer independence mean when selecting a provider for security analyses?

Manufacturer independence means that the consulting provider has no financial incentives or ties to particular product or solution manufacturers. This ensures an objective evaluation of market solutions and the recommendation of the technologies best suited to the financial institution, without conflicts of interest influencing the decisions. Independent consultants such as PLANATEL® work exclusively in the client's interest.

What role do fire alarm systems play in the security analysis of financial institutions?

Fire alarm systems (BMA) are an integral part of the physical security infrastructure of financial institutions. They protect buildings, critical infrastructure and data from fire damage. As part of a security analysis, BMA are checked for functionality, reliability and legal compliance against standards such as DIN 14675 and VdS 2095, and integrated into a holistic security concept.

Sources and further information

  • Cyber Security für die Finanzbranche, KPMG International
  • Cybersicherheit und KRITIS im Finanzsektor, PwC
  • Cyber Security & IT Security Deutschland | Beratung & News, Grant Thornton
  • Cyber Security für Banken & Finanzdienstleister | Integrity360
  • IT-Sicherheitlösungen für Finanzdienstleister, Myra Security